Photo: young migrants and refugees on the Greek island of Lesbos IOM / Amanda Nero 2015

The UK Government recently announced that it will close the ‘Dubs amendment' scheme (set out in section 67 of the Immigration Act 2016), which allows for the transfer of unaccompanied children from Europe to the United Kingdom. A total of 200 children have already arrived through the scheme and the government has now decided to receive another 150 children, capping the number at 350.

The ‘Dubs’ scheme gives vulnerable children an opportunity to be protected from the risks of neglect, abuse and exploitation which remain very real for thousands of unaccompanied children who are already in Europe. IOM, like many others, is deeply concerned about the closure of the scheme and with it, the loss of a safe route for the most vulnerable children to come to the UK.

Dipti Pardeshi, IOM UK Chief of Mission, says:
“The ‘Dubs’ scheme showed the UK’s compassion and commitment towards the most vulnerable children who need protection at a time when so many are stranded and vulnerable, exposed to increased threats from traffickers, and often forced to resort to perilous journeys in their search for safety and stability. IOM is hopeful that the UK will continue this crucial protection programme and remains committed to providing all necessary support.”

IOM UK joined with 14 other organisations in co-signing a letter to the Home Secretary, Amber Rudd, highlighting concerns about the closure of the scheme and urging a reconsideration of the decision.

on Thursday, 9 March 2017 from 6 to 8.30 pm
at Curzon Cinema Goldsmiths University
Lewisham Way
New Cross
SE14 6NW London
Queens of Syria tells the story of fifty women from Syria, all forced into exile in Jordan, who came together in Autumn 2013 to create and perform their own version of the Trojan Women, the timeless Ancient Greek tragedy all about the plight of women in war.

The screening will be followed by a Q&A session with producer Georgina Paget.
The audience will also have the opportunity to ask questions to
members of the Jordan-based cast via Skype.

Migration is one of the key realities of our time. It cuts across communities, influences priorities, and shapes societies.
To realise the benefits of migration for migrants and host communities alike, our responses must be innovative, collaborative and designed beyond the immediate.